In January, Principal Patrick Deane launched a public dialogue on the university’s long-term vision with the publication of Queen’s Bicentennial Vision: A Discussion Paper. He invited campus community members to share their views on the paper, which highlights the values, strengths, and history that define Queen’s, and examines our shifting educational needs and demographic trends. It also explores strategic opportunities to ensure Queen’s remains a leader in research, teaching, and community engagement as it approaches its 200th anniversary.

Since the consultation launched, the Principal’s Office has welcomed feedback through the Queen’s Bicentennial Vision and Consultation website, and university leaders have conducted several virtual Q&A sessions to engage directly with students, faculty, and staff.

Over 400 community members have attended so far, and discussions have covered topics ranging from institutional rankings and trends in post-secondary funding, to research prominence, the societal shift toward STEM, and the future of arts, humanities, and social sciences. The consultation website has shared additional background information to support the conversation as the consultation period continues.

“Engagement with our community is essential to shaping a vision that reflects our shared aspirations and recognizes the opportunities that lie ahead,” says Principal Deane. “I am excited about the enthusiasm and insightful contributions we have received so far and look forward to continuing the discussion.”

In mid-February, Principal Deane met with members of the Indigenous Council to discuss the Bicentennial Vision. Additional Q&A sessions are being organized for March and April, including meetings with student leaders, as well as Queen’s alumni and benefactors. The group of 200 university leaders who met last summer to start envisioning Queen's future will also be reconvened for further consultation.

A draft bicentennial vision, reflecting the consultation process and broader university community discussion, will be posted for further comment and consultation later this year. Read the discussion paper and submit your feedback.
 

Future of the arts, humanities, and social sciences group

As called for in Principal Deane’s discussion paper, a group has now been convened to articulate a comprehensive vision for the future of arts, humanities, and social sciences within the context of the university’s financial challenges, and national and global trends. The Future of the Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences (AHSS) Group will identify opportunities to strengthen these fields through research and teaching, address emerging challenges, and enhance contributions to academic excellence, social engagement, and global impact. The group will deliver a report to the principal for consideration as part of the larger Queen’s Bicentennial Vision development.

For more on the group’s mandate, composition, and scope, read its terms of reference.